Planned Ballyclare rifle range prompts fears for child safety

Several parents who lived near the proposed site argued that their children may be shot if they strayed onto the rifle range.

Despite their protests, the clubhouse and rifle range which the East Antrim Rifle Club wanted to build on the Sawmill Road took another step closer to being a reality.

This followed the decision by Newtownabbey Borough Council to endorse the Planning Department’s decision to give the application permission.

Local residents accused the council of being irresponsible.

The RUC and Army had to inspect the range and issue a certificate before any firing commenced. The range would not go ahead unless both the police and the Army were equally sure that it was safe.

A number of residents living near to the proposed site also raised concerns over potential noise pollution caused by the firing of rifles.

The rifle club said that noise pollution would be restricted as only certain ammunition could be used. They also said that at the time that they had not applied for an entertainments licence.